Meaning of the De Sena family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the De Sena coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
De Sena name meaning and origin
The family name De Sena has roots in Italian and Spanish heritage, often associated with places or regions named Sena. It may signify "from Sena" or "of Sena," reflecting geographical origins. The surname is linked to historical significance, often representing nobility or distinguished ancestry.
History of family crests like the De Sena coat of arms
Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.
The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.
The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.
Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.
De Sena name variations and their meaning
The family name De Sena has seen an array of fascinating variations across different countries, each reflecting unique linguistic influences over the centuries. In Italy, for instance, it may appear as De Senna, a subtle phonetic alteration that aligns with regional dialects during the 17th century, streamlining pronunciation. By the 18th century, in some Spanish-speaking regions, it transformed to De Cena, influenced by the Spanish language's phonetic tendencies and cultural adaptations. Meanwhile, in Brazil, where immigration from various countries flourished in the 19th century, a hybrid form like Senna emerged, often dropping the "De" to sound more colloquial and approachable. These variations showcase the name’s flexibility and resilience, evolving over time through social and linguistic interactions, while maintaining connections to its original roots. As family names often reflect migration patterns, the changes from De Sena to these different iterations highlight the dynamic interplay of culture and language across centuries.
Find your family crest
Learn how to find your family crest.
Other resources:
- Get your official family crest here.
- Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
- See an introduction at wikipedia.com
